Brain Age Test

Memory remains for Switzer after 20 years

NORMAN, Okla. - Twenty years after one of the most tumultuous days in Oklahoma football history, Barry Switzer says he hasn't forgotten what happened. He just doesn't dwell on it.

On June 19, 1989, after the Sooners' program had been rocked by NCAA probation and the arrests of five players on felony charges, a teary-eyed Switzer said there was "too much water under the bridge" to continue as coach.

The resignation of the man who guided Oklahoma to three national championships caught many off guard and eventually resulted in the Sooners' decade-long exile from the ranks of the college football elite. The 71-year-old Switzer said years pass without him recalling the anniversary, but it does cross his mind from time to time.

"I don't count the years," Switzer told The Associated Press. "I'm busy with my businesses and my life. I don't mark it on my calendar.

"Coaches pay a tremendous price for the actions and behavior of their athletes. We are held accountable for their actions. That's what the media and administration do. Is that fair? You judge it."

Switzer joined the Oklahoma staff in 1966 and became head coach in 1973, compiling a 157-29-4 mark during the next 16 seasons and winning national titles in 1974, 1975 and 1985. In December 1988, the NCAA slapped Oklahoma with three years of probation for major recruiting violations committed by the football program.

Then came a string of player arrests. Cornerback Jerry Parks was jailed for nearly three months after pleading no contest to shooting teammate Zarak Peters after an argument. Two players wound up serving prison time after being charged with gang-raping a woman in the football dorm. And quarterback Charles Thompson was arrested after selling cocaine to an undercover FBI agent, later appearing on the cover of Sports Illustrated in an orange jail jumpsuit and serving 17 months in federal prison.

Switzer gave no hint during spri

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